Innovating a New Network | Johnson Maier Ranch
What happens when an accountant and a software engineer team up to create a successful and profitable ranch operation? You get Johnson Maier Ranch, a registered Angus seedstock cattle producer and performance AQHA horse establishment.
Corporate career ambitions crossed paths for the better when a husband-and-wife duo added ranch operators to their resumes. Katherine Johnson and Shaun Maier established Johnson Maier Ranch in 2019 in Washington, Texas. They never imagined it would flourish into part of their identity and serve the agriculture industry in their local communities.
Background Blend
“We both had established corporate careers but shared a passion for agriculture and rural living,” said Shaun.
Katherine grew up in Louisiana and earned both her bachelor's and master’s degrees in accounting from Louisiana State University. She built a successful career in tax accounting and currently serves as a Senior Manager at Excelerate Energy. Shaun studied Computer Engineering at Texas A&M University and has over 14 years of experience in software engineering, while also developing practical skills in electrical work, mechanics and plumbing.
When it came time to decide on livestock to build their ranch operation, methodical thought and previous knowledge went into determining the best cattle breed to raise in Central Texas.
“Katherine pursued formal education through the 44 Farms International Beef Cattle Academy at Texas A&M and gained comprehensive knowledge in beef cattle management,” said Shaun. “We were particularly drawn to the Angus breed for their quality genetics and performance potential.”
Katherine’s and Shaun’s backgrounds outside the ranch have served as the framework for running their agribusiness. Shaun's mechanical and electrical skills provide practical skills needed to maintain ranch infrastructure, while Katherine's business insight creates a strong foundation for business planning.
“My background in tax accounting and financial management has been instrumental in developing strong business practices for our ranch,” said Katherine. “My experience with complex financial analysis helps us make sound decisions, and Shaun's hands-on experience with electrical systems allows us to maintain and improve our infrastructure with minimal outside help.”
“We approach ranching as both a business and a passion,” said Shaun.
Beauty in the Balance
So how does the couple maintain corporate jobs while running a full-time ranch?
"It certainly requires careful planning!” said Katherine. “Beyond our professional careers, Shaun handles much of the equipment maintenance, from tractors to water wells, which saves us significant time and expense. My organizational skills help us optimize our schedules, especially during busy seasons.”
At the end of the day, Katherine and Shaun are a team. Blending their backgrounds allows them to find solutions amongst themselves. Their key to success is one another.
First Generation Producers
Central Texas is home to a rich beef heritage and thriving agriculture production. As first-generation producers, Katherine and Shaun knew they had a lot to learn but were determined to invest in themselves to achieve their goals for their operation.
"As first-generation producers, we faced a significant learning curve,” said Shaun. “We've both been intentional about building relationships with experienced mentors. The beef industry has allowed us to build something meaningful together that combines both our backgrounds. There's something uniquely rewarding about seeing tangible results from our combined efforts."
“Our location in Washington County gives us access to both traditional agricultural communities and emerging markets. We've found that customers appreciate not only our quality standards but also our self-sufficient approach to ranching,” he added.
A Partner for Agriculture
The ag industry is the backbone of the economy. At Capital Farm Credit, serving next generation producers is a priority and an initiative we pour energy into daily.
"Capital Farm Credit has been an essential partner in our journey as first-generation ranchers,” said Katherine. “I appreciate their industry-specific knowledge, while Shaun values their understanding of the practical aspects of running a ranch.”
“They recognize the value of both our business plan and our ability to maintain our own infrastructure,” said Shaun. “Their expertise meant we could discuss both the financial projections and operational realities of our ranch.”
Advice for Beginning Ranchers
For Shaun and Katherine, ranching is a passion, but it is first and foremost a business.
“Ranching isn't just a lifestyle—it's a business that requires significant planning, capital and commitment,” said Shaun. “If we could give someone advice just starting out in the practice, we would suggest developing practical skills and maintaining another income source while building the ranch. Success requires both business expertise and the ability to solve everyday problems without calling for help."
“Invest in education and mentorship first,” shares Katherine. “Start with quality over quantity, and don't underestimate the value of being able to solve problems yourself.”
Capital Farm Credit’s AgriRoots Programs were designed to be the resources needed to assist beginning producers in successfully starting and building their operation. Our experienced lenders understand what it means to start out in an industry that is new to our customers. That’s why we believe we are the ideal partner for next generation producers.
“We see tremendous opportunity in Texas agriculture, particularly for producers who balance traditional practices with innovation,” said Shaun. “We both see Texas agriculture evolving to reward producers who combine solid business fundamentals with self-sufficiency and adaptability."
GROW Your AgriRoots
Johnson Maiers Ranch was recently named a winner of Capital Farm Credit’s GROW Your AgriRoots award program. With their awarded grant funding, Katherine and Shaun have renovated their beef storage facility to meet Texas Department of State Health Services standards.
“The award provided essential capital,” said Katherine. “These improvements will enhance our operation's abilities and allow us to better serve our customers."
Whether your skillset is seasoned, or you are green to the farming and ranching lifestyle, Capital Farm Credit is here to be your partner in discovering how obtaining your goals is possible.
Visit here to learn more about our AgriRoots Programs.